Each season, our stories are told through the lens of three remarkable families, as Traveling the Spectrum explores the boundless potential and transformative power of travel. We dive into their lives, sharing in their moments of joy, their challenges and their incredible journeys of self-discovery.
Mila is an adorable and curious 5-year-old girl from West New York, New Jersey, where she lives with her parents, Tanya and Miguel. Though she isn’t speaking yet, Mila communicates using an iPad AAC device and works hard every day to express herself. Recently, she’s been showing her mom beach photos—her way of saying, “It’s time for a vacation!” With a baby brother on the way, this will be the family’s final getaway as a trio, and Mila is ready for one more adventure before their next chapter begins.
Jonah, 22, lives in Elk River, Minnesota with his parents, Rhonda and David. Diagnosed with autism and OCD at a young age, Jonah has always had a deep love for the ocean and airplanes—perhaps a connection to his birthplace, Hawaii. After a tough road trip last summer, Jonah swore off vacations, but now he’s ready to give travel another chance. His sister, Siri, is joining him for the journey, and the whole family hopes this trip will rekindle Jonah’s excitement for exploring the world together.
Brittney is an Atlanta-based author and poet who channels her voice into powerful advocacy. As an autistic woman and foster care survivor, she shares her story to uplift and inspire others—especially children still in the system. She also works for an airline and advocates for increased autism support at airports, striving to make travel more accessible and inclusive. After a childhood marked by constant upheaval, Brittney is now reclaiming travel as a source of joy. With her radiant smile and unstoppable spirit, she’s planning her dream beach vacation—one that’s entirely her own.
Max Tilk is somewhat of a celebrity, thanks to the heartfelt and entertaining videos posted by his brother, Jake. The two brothers have built up a huge fanbase online that loves Max for his savant-like knowledge and overall joyful, curious and fun-loving personality.
Mikko Hill is a young girl from Fort Hood, Texas. She is nonverbal. Mikko’s family takes a gentle approach to parenting that has earned them almost one million followers on TikTok. They are looking forward to their very first real family vacation. Not even her mom, Precious, has been on an airplane before!
An Ohio native who loves all things sports and is very outspoken, Brayden loves to imitate sportscasters and enjoys outdoor activities. As the baby of the family, he always says what’s on his mind and likes to joke with his dad, who he calls “chopped liver.”
"Traveling the Spectrum is about the importance of acceptance, understanding and support for people who have additional needs, and the huge difference that those things can make to an experience like a vacation. But more than that, it’s about love. The families featured in this series all have such a clear, complete and unconditional love for each other, a love that the viewer can’t help but feel as well. Traveling the Spectrum opens up a doorway of acceptance and appreciation for all different types of people, something that the world is always in need of."
Through the lens of three remarkable families, Traveling the Spectrum explores the boundless potential and transformative power of travel. We dive into their lives, sharing in their moments of joy, their challenges, and their incredible journeys of self-discovery.
In the premiere, we follow three families—social media star Max Tilk and his brother Jake, the gentle Hill family and the lively Gielinks—preparing for a Myrtle Beach trip. See their daily lives and travel prep as they set off on an adventure, culminating in their arrival in Myrtle Beach.
The families arrive in Myrtle Beach with excitement and surprises. The Gielinks are thrilled with a penthouse upgrade, Max and Jake discuss safety with Officer Harrelson and the Hill family ensures Mikko’s safety with SOS Care. They all enjoy fun at the water park and beach.
Jake and Max share laughs before a thrilling jet ski ride, while the Hill family explores Savannah’s Playground, where Mikko loves the musical section. The Gielinks enjoy dolphin watching and all three families experience unforgettable moments, from a ropes course to a special lunch.
The Gielink family takes their adventure to new heights with parasailing, while the Hill family navigates sensory overload at WonderWorks. Max and Jake have an exciting round of golf, showcasing Max’s skills and adding to their Myrtle Beach memories.
Jake and Max reel in big catches with Captain Buddy, while the Hill family is amazed by Ripley’s Aquarium. Jake and Max enjoy a steakhouse night out and the Gielinks cheer for Brayden as he throws the first pitch at the baseball game.
Brayden’s unexpected illness shifts plans, but the trip’s spirit remains strong. Jake and Max capture breathtaking views from a helicopter, the Hills enjoy a peaceful sailboat ride and all families reflect on their memorable experiences and growth from the journey.
Traveling the Spectrum is a six-part series that offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of three families living with autism, showcasing their heartfelt journeys toward understanding, acceptance and the joy of creating memories and discovering the world together.
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